CUHK postgrad student commits suicide on first day of school

A student at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) committed suicide on the first day of the new academic year, Ming Pao Daily reported Tuesday.

The 21-year-old man, surnamed Chan, was the second child in a family of five living in Tsz Ching Estate in Tsz Wan Shan.

Chan graduated from CUHK with a bachelor’s degree in computer science and engineering last year, and was starting a one-year diploma of education program at the same university.

He was reportedly an introvert who spoke infrequently to others and spent much of his time on video games.

Chan left behind three letters to his family, classmates at secondary school and university.

He was found unconscious at around 5 a.m. Monday in a recreational space at the base of the building where he lived, having plunged from his home on the 14th floor.

Chan was certified dead at hospital.

A CUHK representative confirmed Chan was a student there and expressed sorrow over his death.

The university said it would provide the necessary assistance to Chan’s family.

CUHK vice chancellor Joseph Sung Jao-yiu said he was saddened by the news and called on young people to cherish life and deal with difficulties with courage.

He said the university, teaching staff, family members and friends are always willing to help.

Vincent Ng Chi-kwan, executive director of Suicide Prevention Services Ltd., said people who are emotionally disturbed should not “hide themselves up” but should talk to people they trust or counselors on various hotline services.

Ng said considerable weight loss over a short period of time, looking depressed and negative or giving away personal belongings could be signs a person is becoming suicidal.

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